Connector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipe and connector connecting structure therefor

ABSTRACT

The connector clip for verifying complete connection includes a connection verifying portion, more specifically, a pair of restraining portions having an assistance structure to certainly detect incomplete connection between the connector and the pipe. The assistance structure may be constructed so as to remove a sealing property between the connector and the pipe in incomplete connection relation with one another.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector clip which isadapted to verify complete connection or fitting connection between aconnector used in a joint of a piping, for example, a gasoline fuelpiping of a vehicle, and a pipe inserted in the connector, and aconnector connecting structure including such connector clip.

[0002] In a joint of a fluid piping, a connector having a tubeconnecting portion is applied to join a pipe and a tube. In such piping,for example, the pipe is provided with an annular engagement projectionon an outer peripheral surface of one axial side or an inserting endportion, and the connector is configured with a retainer fitted in apipe inserting portion, or a holding portion of a connector housing.Then, the pipe is inserted into the retainer so as to allow the annularengagement projection to snap-engage with one axial end portion of theretainer providing a stop mechanism between the pipe and the connectorwith a tube connected to the tube connecting portion. Hence, if anoperator does not take care sufficiently to complete connection betweenthe pipe and the connector, the pipe might not be fully inserted intothe retainer and the annular engagement projection of the pipe might notsnap-engage with one axial end portion of the retainer, or the retainermight not be fitted properly in the holding portion of the connectorhousing. That is, the pipe might be in a half-fitting relation withrespect to the connector. Meanwhile within a connecting portion betweena connector and a pipe, a sealing member is disposed to prevent aninternal fluid from leaking out. However, in case of a piping systemsubject to operation while the pipe is incompletely connected with theconnector, usually sealing property by the sealing member between theconnector and the pipe is insufficient or becomes lowered, and aninternal fluid leaks out. In view of the foregoing aspect, it ispreferred to adapt a connector connecting structure for verifyingcomplete connection and preventing incomplete connection between aconnector and a pipe, in order not to subject a piping system tooperation while the pipe is not fully inserted into the retainer, or theretainer is not properly fitted in the connector.

[0003] As for such connector connecting structure for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe, a connector connectingstructure disclosed in the following Patent Document 1 is known. In theconnector connecting structure, in addition to an annular engagementprojection (first annular rib) for snap-engagement, an annularverification projection (second annular rib) is provided on an outerperipheral surface of the pipe so as to be located on an opposite axialside of or beyond an opposite axial end of the connector when the pipeis connected to the connector. And, a connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe is put and mounted onthe connector and the pipe. The connector clip includes a clip body(intermediate part) of U-shape in cross section having one-side wallportion (second lateral wall) and an opposite-side wall portion (firstlateral wall) on opposite ends thereof. The opposite-side wall portion(first lateral wall) is provided with a connection verifying portion(protruding portion). One-side wall portion of the connector clip forverifying complete connection is provided with a connector fit-on recess(second cutaway recess) and the opposite-side wall portion is alsoformed with a pipe fit-on recess (first cutaway recess). The connectorfit-on recess (second cutaway recess) is to be fitted on a portion ofthe connector on one axial side of a holding portion, and adjacent tothe holding portion, while the pipe fit-on recess (first cutaway recess)is to be fitted on a portion of the pipe on an opposite axial side ofthe annular verification projection, and adjacent to the annularverification projection. And, the connection verifying portion isconfigured by a pair of restraining portions formed on opposite endportions or both widthwise sides of the pipe fit-on recess of theopposite-side wall portion. A distance between a pair of the restrainingportions is designed equal to a width of an opening side (a side of afirst guiding surface of the first cutaway recess) of the pipe fit-onrecess.

[0004] If the pipe is correctly inserted and connected to the connectorand the annular verification projection is located in a fixed axialposition, the connector clip for verifying complete connection is easilymounted on the connector and the pipe so as to clip a held portion fromthe holding portion of the connector to the annular verificationprojection of the pipe by the one and the opposite-side wall portionsfrom axially opposite sides thereof. However, if the pipe isincompletely fitted in the connector and the annular verificationprojection is located relatively (relatively with respect to theconnector) toward an opposite axial direction of or beyond the fixedaxial position, the annular verification projection abuts the connectionverifying portion, is not allowed to pass through the connectionverifying portion, and therefore, the connector clip cannot be mountedon the connector and the pipe. For this reason, complete connection ofthe pipe to the connector can be verified by mounting the connector clipon the connector and the pipe. On the contrary, when the connector clipcannot be mounted to the connector and the pipe, incomplete connectionof the pipe can be consequently verified.

[0005] Patent Document 1 JP, A, 11-6591

[0006] Meanwhile, in a connector connecting structure disclosed in thePatent Document 1, an axial distance between an inner or inside surfaceof the opposite-side wall portion and an opposite axial end of theconnection verifying portion is designed longer than an axial lengthbetween the annular engagement projection and the annular verificationprojection. Accordingly, even if the pipe is incompletely fitted in theconnector and the annular verification projection is to be located on anopposite axial side of or beyond the connection verifying portion, theannular engagement projection abuts the connection verifying portion andthe connector clip for verifying complete connection cannot be mountedon the connector and the pipe. Therefore, this configuration alsoenables to verify incomplete connection of a pipe even under suchcircumstances.

[0007] However, if a pipe is formed with a bent portion on an oppositeaxial side of or beyond the annular verification projection and inproximity thereof, in some cases, the connection verifying portionshould be designed short in order not to cause interference between anopposite axial end portion of the connection verifying portion and thebent portion when the connector clip is mounted to the connector and thepipe in complete connecting relation. And, recently, as components andparts are closely arranged in a vehicle, the connection verifyingportion is preferably designed as short as possible in order not tocause interference between the connector verifying portion and othercomponents and parts when mounting the connector clip. But, in theconnection verifying portion designed short, if the annular verificationprojection is located on an opposite axial side of or beyond theconnection verifying portion, the connector clip can be mounted to theconnector and the pipe although the pipe is incompletely connected tothe connector, and thereby connection verifying function of theconnector connecting structure is lowered.

[0008] And, in the connector clip for verifying complete connectionbetween a connector and a pipe disclosed in the Patent Document 1, eachof restraining portions is formed in a thin-walled restraining lug. So,a reinforcement rib is formed integrally between the restraining portionand the opposite-side wall portion to prevent the restraining portionfrom being so deformed as to allow the annular verification projectionto pass through when the annular verification projection is pressed.

[0009] However, the reinforcement ribs are provided on widthwise outerend portions of restraining portions, i.e., restraining lugsrespectively, and a space wider than the annular verification projectionis defined between the reinforcement ribs. Therefore, even when a pipeis relatively incompletely fitted in a connector, as shown in FIG. 24,for example, if a portion of a pipe between an opposite axial end of aconnector A and an annular verification projection B is passed throughbetween a pair of the restraining lugs C via an opposite axial sidethereof, whole of the annular verification projection B can be locatedbetween an opposite-side wall portion D and the restraining lug C of aconnector clip E for verifying complete connection. In this occasion, byinclining or rotating the connector clip D about a side of therestraining lugs C (refer to an arrow in FIG. 24), the connector clip Ecan be mounted to the connector A and the pipe F while a holding portionG of the connector A is received in a clip body H as shown in FIG. 25.Also from this point of view, thus configured connector connectingstructure or connector clip for verifying complete connection cannot beexpected a positive function for verifying complete connection between aconnector and a pipe.

[0010] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to providea connector clip and a connector connecting structure using theconnector clip having an excellent function for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In order to achieve the aforementioned object, there is provideda novel connector clip for verifying complete connection between aconnector and a pipe, namely, connector clip for preventing incompleteconnection between a connector and a pipe. The connector clip, forexample, the connector cap for verifying complete connection between aconnector and a pipe according to the present invention is applied to beput on and mounted to a connector and a pipe inserted in the connector.The connector has a tube connecting portion on one axial side thereofand retainer means on an opposite axial side thereof, and is providedwith a sealing member in an inner peripheral surface thereof. The pipeis provided with an annular engagement projection and an annularverification projection on an outer peripheral surface thereof. The pipeis inserted into an opening on an axial end of the connector so as toallow an inserting end (an insertion end) thereof to be located beyondthe sealing member, and the annular engagement projection to besnap-engaged with the retainer means. The annular verificationprojection is located in or near an opposite axial end of the connectoror on an opposite axial side of an opposite axial end of the connectorwhen the pipe is inserted in and connected to the connector. Here, a“tube connecting portion” means or indicates connecting portions for awide variety of mating members to be joined with a pipe. The connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention comprises a clip body on one axialside thereof and a connection verifying portion on an opposite axialside thereof, continued from the clip body. The clip body includes oneclip portion and an opposite clip portion on one and opposite axial endportions or positions thereof respectively, and is configured to receivea held portion from a large diameter portion on an opposite axial sideof the connector to the annular verification projection of the pipe soas to be held by the clip portions from axially opposite ends of theheld portion. According to the present invention, the connectionverifying portion is configured by a pair of restraining portionsextending from the clip body in an opposite axial direction with awidthwise distance so as to allow a body of the pipe to pass through ormove therebetween but not to allow the annular engagement projection andthe annular verification projection of the pipe to pass throughtherebetween. And, a pair of the restraining portions have or areprovided with an assistance structure to effectively detect (verify)incomplete connection between the connector and the pipe. Here, terms“axial” and “axial direction” means a direction of an axis of aconnector, a connector housing, a pipe or any relevant member.

[0012] The clip body receives a held portion from the large diameterportion (for example, one axial end thereof) of the connector to theannular verification projection of the pipe. In some cases, a radiallyoutwardly projecting portion formed on an outer peripheral surface ofthe connector falls under a “large diameter portion” of the connector.The clip portions of the clip body on one and opposite axial endportions or positions (proximities of one axial end or an opposite axialend fall under the one axial end position or the opposite axial endposition) receives a held portion from the large diameter portion to theannular verification projection of the pipe not axially spaced orslightly axially spaced. That is, an axial distance between a pair ofthe clip portions is designed equal to or generally equal to an axiallength of the held portion from the large diameter portion (for example,one axial end thereof) to the annular verification projection (forexample, an opposite axial end thereof) when the pipe is correctlyinserted and connected to the connector. Therefore, if the pipe isincompletely connected to the connector and the annular verificationprojection of the pipe is located toward an opposite axial side, theannular verification projection is located on a side of the connectionverifying portion of the connector clip when the connector clip is triedto be mounted. However, a pair of the restraining portions of theconnection verifying portion is configured with a widthwise distance,for example, generally equal to an outer diameter of a body (a portionof the pipe excluding the annular engagement projection and the annularverification projection) of the pipe, so as not to allow the annularverification projection to pass through or move therebetween. As aresult, the annular verification projection of the pipe and theconnection verifying portion interfere with one another, and theconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe cannot be mounted to the connector and the pipe. That is, whenthe connector clip is successfully mounted to the connector and thepipe, the pipe is relatively completely inserted and connected to theconnector.

[0013] Further, according to the present invention, a pair of therestraining portions have or are provided with assistance structure toeffectively detect (verify) incomplete connection between a connectorand a pipe. Then there is less fear that incomplete connectiontherebetween is undetected or overlooked.

[0014] An axial distance between the opposite clip portion and anopposite axial end of the connection verifying portion may be designedshorter than an axial length between the annular engagement projectionand the annular verification projection of the pipe. Here, theassistance structure is constructed by designing an axial distancebetween the opposite clip portion and an opposite axial end of theconnection verifying portion equal to or longer than an axial distancebetween the inserting end of the pipe and an opposite axial end of thesealing member. In such construction, if the pipe is incompletelyconnected to the connector, the annular verification projection of thepipe is located toward an opposite axial side, and on an opposite axialside of the connection verifying portion of the connector clip (on anopposite axial side from or beyond the connection verifying portion ofthe connector clip), a portion of the pipe between the annularengagement projection and the annular verification projection is allowedto pass through or move between a pair of the restraining portions. And,consequently, it might happen that the connector clip is mounted to theconnector and the pipe. However, an axial distance from the clip portiondisposed on an opposite axial end portion or position of the clip bodyto an opposite axial end of the connection verifying portion(restraining portion) is designed equal to or longer than an axialdistance between the inserting end of the pipe and an opposite axial endof the sealing member. So, in this case, the inserting end of the pipeis retracted to a position on an opposite axial side of an oppositeaxial end of the sealing member (a position on an opposite axial sidefrom or beyond an opposite axial end of the sealing member).Accordingly, at inspection to verify connection between a connector anda pipe by flowing inspection fluid in the connector and the pipe, theinspection fluid leaks out between the connector and the pipe, andthereby it is verified that the pipe is incompletely connected to theconnector.

[0015] The clip body may be configured to have an inner receivingportion of U-shape in cross-section, while the connection verifyingportion may be configured to include a joint portion to join a pair ofthe restraining portions and have a receiving recess of U-shape in crosssection to receive an opposite axial side of the annular verificationprojection with respect to the pipe (an opposite axial side from orbeyond the annular verification projection with respect to the pipe).

[0016] Also, a connector connecting structure for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe according to the presentinvention is constructed by way of putting a connector clip thereon andmounting it thereto. The connector has a tube connecting portion on oneaxial side thereof and retainer means on an opposite axial side thereof,and is provided with sealing member in an inner peripheral surfacethereof The pipe is provided with an annular engagement projection andan annular verification projection on an outer peripheral surfacethereof The pipe is inserted into an opening on an axial end of theconnector so as to allow an inserting end thereof to be located beyondthe sealing member, and the annular engagement projection to besnap-engaged with the retainer means. The annular verificationprojection is located in or near an opposite axial end of the connectoror on an opposite axial side of an opposite axial end of the connector.The connector clip for verifying complete connection between a connectorand a pipe comprises a clip body on one axial side thereof and aconnection verifying portion on an opposite axial side thereof,continued from the clip body. The clip body includes one clip portionand an opposite clip portion on one and opposite axial end portions orpositions thereof respectively. The clip body receives therein a heldportion from a large diameter portion on an opposite axial side of theconnector to the annular verification projection of the pipe so as to beheld by the clip portions from axially opposite ends of the heldportion. The connection verifying portion is configured by a pair ofrestraining portions extending from the clip body in an opposite axialdirection with a widthwise distance so as to allow a body of the pipe topass through or move therebetween but not to allow the annularengagement projection and the annular verification projection of thepipe to pass through therebetween, An axial distance between theopposite clip portion of the clip body and an opposite axial end of theconnection verifying portion is designed shorter than an axial lengthbetween the annular engagement projection and the annular verificationprojection of the pipe and equal to or longer than an axial distancebetween the inserting end of the pipe and an opposite axial end of thesealing member.

[0017] According to the present invention, the one clip portion of theclip body may be defined in an inside (inner) surface of one-side wallportion (for example, an inside (inner) surface of the one-side wallportion is configured as the one clip portion) having a connector fit-onrecess of U-shape. And, the opposite clip portion of the clip body maybe defined in an inside (inner) surface of an opposite-side wall portion(for example, an inside (inner) surface of the opposite-side wallportion is configured as the opposite clip portion) having a pipe fit-onrecess of U-shape with a width equal to or generally equal to an outerdiameter of a body of the pipe. The one-side wall portion may be formedon one axial end portion of the clip body, and the opposite-side wallportion may be formed on an opposite axial end portion of the clip body.A pair of the restraining portions may be formed in a form of a pair ofrestraining lugs which are formed integrally on end portions of anopening side of the opposite-side wall portion with pipe fit-on recesstherebetween and extend in an opposite axial direction And,reinforcement ribs may be provided integrally between the restraininglugs and the opposite-side wall portion respectively. An axial distancebetween the opposite clip portion and opposite axial end of therestraining lug may be designed longer than an axial length between theannular engagement projection and the annular verification projection ofthe pipe. Here, the assistance structure may be constructed by designinga distance between a pair of the reinforcement ribs shorter than anouter diameter of the annular verification projection of the pipe. Aportion of the pipe between the annular engagement projection and theannular verification projection, in parallel relation to a pair of therestraining lugs, cannot pass through therebetween. In thisconstruction, additionally, when the pipe is incompletely connected tothe connector and the annular verification projection is in a positionalrelation to abut a pair of the restraining lugs, even if one axial sideof (from or beyond) the annular verification projection (a portion ofthe pipe between the annular engagement projection and the annularverification projection) with respect to the pipe is let through orfitted between a pair of the restraining lugs via an opposite axial sideof the restraining lugs, the annular verification projection isprevented from entirely entering between the restraining lugs and theopposite-side wall portion (for example, in space on one axial side ofan opposite axial end of the restraining lugs) due to abutment andinterference with the reinforcement ribs. Hence, an end of an openingside of the opposite-side wall portion or one axial end portions of therestraining lugs abut the annular engagement projection, the connectorclip cannot be handled to be mounted so as to allow the pipe to passthrough between a pair of the restraining lugs. Therefore, as long asthe pipe is incompletely connected to the connector, the connector clipcertainly or near certainly cannot be mounted to the connector and thepipe.

[0018] In order to further ensure to prevent the annular verificationprojection from entirely entering between the restraining lugs and theopposite-side wall portion, reinforcement ribs are preferably formed forentire length of the reinforcement lugs respectively. And, thereinforcement ribs may be formed along the pipe fit-on recessrespectively, and a distance between a pair of the reinforcement ribsmay be designed equal to or generally equal to a width of the pipefit-on recess.

[0019] Furthermore, if the one-side wall portion provided in the clipbody is raised in one axial direction so that the connector fit-onrecess protrudes in one axial direction, a width or length from an outeredge of the one-side wall portion to the connector fit-on recess may bedesigned large, and thereby a peripheral rim of the connector fit-onrecess easily opens due to deformation of the one-side wall portion. So,even if the annular verification projection is formed somewhat thick orslightly toward an opposite axial direction, it becomes possible toreceive a held portion from the large diameter portion of the connectorto the annular verification projection between the one-side wall portionand the opposite-side wall portion.

[0020] As described above, the connector clip for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe and the connector connectingstructure provided with the connector clip according to the presentinvention respectively, has an excellent function to prevent incompleteconnection between a connector and a pipe.

[0021] Now, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will bedescribed in detail with reference to the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connector to which a connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is applied.

[0023]FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the connector.

[0024]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a retainer to be fitted in theconnector.

[0025]FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing the case that a pipe isinserted in and connected to the connector.

[0026]FIG. 5 is a perspective sectional view of the connector clip forverifying complete connection between a connector and a pipe accordingto the present invention.

[0027]FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe according to thepresent invention.

[0028]FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing the case that the connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is to be mounted to the connector andthe pipe.

[0029]FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the case that the connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is mounted to the connector and thepipe.

[0030]FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing the case that the connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is mounted to the connector and thepipe.

[0031]FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing the case that the connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is tried to be mounted to theconnector and the pipe, when the pipe is incompletely connected to theconnector.

[0032]FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the case that the connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention is successfully mounted to theconnector and the pipe although the pipe is incompletely connected tothe connector.

[0033]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another connector to whichanother connector clip for verifying complete connection between aconnector and a pipe according to the present invention is applied.

[0034]FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the another connector.

[0035]FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing the case that another pipe isinserted in and connected to the another connector.

[0036]FIG. 15 is a perspective sectional view of the another connectorclip for verifying complete connection between a connector and a pipeaccording to the present invention.

[0037]FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the another connector clip forverifying complete connection between a connector and a pipe accordingto the present invention seen from different direction.

[0038]FIG. 17 is an explanatory view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is to be mounted to theanother connector and the another pipe.

[0039]FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is mounted to the anotherconnector and the another pipe.

[0040]FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is mounted to the anotherconnector and the another pipe, seen from a different direction.

[0041]FIG. 20 is a sectional view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is mounted to the anotherconnector and the another pipe.

[0042]FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is tried to be mounted to theanother connector and the another pipe, when the another pipe isincompletely connected to the another connector.

[0043]FIG. 22 is an explanatory view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is tried to be mounted to theanother connector and the another pipe, when the another pipe isincompletely connected to the another connector in a different manner

[0044]FIG. 23 is an explanatory view showing the case that the anotherconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe according to the present invention is tried to be mounted to theanother connector and the another pipe in a peculiar manner, when theanother pipe is incompletely connected to the another connector.

[0045]FIG. 24 is an explanatory view showing the case that aconventional connector clip for verifying complete connection between aconnector and a pipe is tried to be mounted to a connector and a pipe ina peculiar manner, when the pipe is incompletely connected to theconnector.

[0046]FIG. 25 is a sectional view showing the case that the conventionalconnector clip for verifying complete connection between a connector anda pipe is mounted to the connector and the pipe in a peculiar manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] As well shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a connector or quick connector 1,to which a connector clip (cap) for verifying complete connectionbetween a connector and a pipe or preventing incomplete connectionbetween a connector and a pipe according to the present invention isapplied, is used for joint construction in a gasoline fuel piping forvehicle. The connector 1 has a tubular connector housing 3, for example,made of glass fiber reinforced polyamide (PA/GF). The connector housing3 includes a resin tube connecting portion 5 on one axial side thereof,a pipe inserting portion 7 on an opposite axial side thereof, and athrough bore 9 through from an opposite axial end (rear end) of the pipeinserting portion 7 to one axial end (leading end) of the resin tubeconnecting portion 5. The resin tube connecting portion 5 is formed witha seal fit portion 11 on an outer peripheral surface thereof and twoannular stop ribs 13 in axially spaced relation with one another on theouter peripheral surface. A seal ring (not shown) is fitted on the sealfit portion 11, then, a resin tube (not shown) of relatively highrigidity is tightly fittingly connected to an outer periphery of theresin tube connecting portion 5 of the connector 1.

[0048] The pipe inserting portion 7 has a cylindrical transitionalportion 15 on one axial side thereof which is continued integrally tothe resin tube connecting portion 5, a tubular holding portion 17 oflarge diameter (large diameter portion) on an opposite axial sidethereof, and a cylindrical sealing portion 19 in the middle axiallythereof, sized smaller than the tubular holding portion 17 in diameter,but larger than the cylindrical transitional portion 15 in diameter. Anouter peripheral surface of the tubular holding portion 17 of the pipeinserting portion 7 includes planar portions 21 located in diametricallysymmetrical positions thereof, and engagement windows 23 formed inopposed relations with one another in arcuate peripheral wall portionsarranged between the planar portions 21. In the cylindrical sealingportion 19 of the pipe inserting portion 7, a pair of O-rings 25(sealing members) are fitted in axially side-by-side relation with acollar 27 therebetween within the inner peripheral surface thereof Astepped end surface 29 (one axial end surface of the large diameterportion) is defined on one axial end of an outer surface of the tubularholding portion 17 or between the outer peripheral surface of thetubular holding portion 17 and an outer peripheral surface of thecylindrical sealing portion 19. A numeral reference 31 in FIG. 2indicates a resin bush which is fitted over an inner peripheral surfaceof the tubular holding portion 17 and an inner peripheral surface of thecylindrical sealing portion 19 to prevent displacement of the O-rings25.

[0049] A retainer 33, for example, made of PA is fitted in the tubularholding portion 17 of the pipe inserting portion 7. This retainer 33 isrelatively flexible, and is formed so as to be resiliently deformable.As well understood with reference to FIG. 3, the retainer 33 has a mainbody 35 of C-shape in cross-section wherein a relatively large space fordeformation is defined between circumferentially opposite end portions37 thereof. The main body 35 is provided with a pair of stopper portions39 projecting radially outwardly in diametrically symmetrical positionsin an opposite axial end portion thereof. An inner surface of the mainbody 35 tapers generally in the direction to one axial side thereof soas to reduce gradually an inner diameter thereof except thecircumferentially opposite ends 37 and a portion opposed to the spacefor deformation. One axial end portion of the main body 35 serves as anengagement portion 41, generally defining an inner diameter smaller thanan outer diameter of an annular engagement projection 43 around an outerperipheral surface of one axial side or an inserting or insertion endportion of the pipe 45 (refer to FIG. 4), and substantially identical toan outer diameter of a body of the pipe 45, except the circumferentiallyopposite ends 37 and a portion opposed to the space for deformation.

[0050] A pair of operation arms 47 are integrally formed on an oppositeaxial end of the main body 35 of the retainer 33 so as to extendinclining radially outwardly in an opposite direction axially fromrespective circumferential positions corresponding to the stopperportions 39. The operation arms 47 have latching ends 49 projectingradially outwardly on an opposite axial end portions thereofrespectively. The engagement portion 41 of the main body 35 is providedwith a pair of engagement slits 51 extending circumferentially inopposed relation with one another. Thus configured retainer 33 isinserted and fitted in the tubular holding portion 17 of the pipeinserting portion 7, so that the stopper portions 39 are seated in theengagement windows 23 and that the latching ends 49 are in engagementrelation with the tubular holding portion 17 on an opposite axial endthereof A numeral reference 53 in FIG. 2 indicates rotational movementrestraint projection integrally which is formed in an inner surface ofthe tubular holding portion 17. The rotational movement restraintprojection 53 is configured to seat in a cutaway of the retainer 33 toprevent rotational movement of the retainer 33.

[0051] As well understood with reference to FIG. 4, the pipe 45 to bejointed to a resin tube is relatively pushed, and fittingly insertedinto an opening 55 on an axial end of the pipe inserting portion 7 ofthe connector housing 3 or the connector 1 so that the annularengagement projection 43 progresses radially expanding an inner surfaceof the main body 35 of the retainer 33 until the annular engagementprojection 43 seats in the engagement slits 51 in snap-engagementrelation therewith. The pipe 45 is further provided with an annularverification projection 57 with same or substantially same configurationas the annular engagement projection 43 on an outer peripheral surfaceof an opposite axial side of (from or beyond) the annular engagementprojection 43. The annular verification projection 57 is arranged on thepipe 45 so as to be located axially outer side or an opposite axial sideof or beyond the opening 55 on an axial end of the pipe insertingportion 7 or the latching end 49 of the retainer 33, while the pipe 45is correctly inserted in and fittingly connected to the connector 1 sothat the annular engagement projection 43 seats in and engages in theengagement slits 51 of the retainer 33. The annular engagementprojection 43 which has fitted in and snap-engaged with the engagementslits 51 of the main body 35 of the retainer 33 blocks or limits furtheraxial in-and-out movement of the pipe 45 with respect to the connector1. That is, the pipe 45 is thereby almost locked against relative axialmovement in the connector 1. One axial end or an inserting or insertionend of the pipe 45 reaches in the cylindrical transitional portion 15beyond a pair of the O-rings 25 within the cylindrical sealing portion19, and thereby a seal is formed by the O-rings 25 between an outerperipheral surface of the pipe 45 and the inner peripheral surface ofthe pipe inserting portion 7 of the connector housing 3

[0052] In the event of removing the pipe 45 from the connector 1, thelatching ends 49 of the operating arms 47 of the retainer 33 are pressedradially inwardly from outside to narrow a radial space between theoperating arms 47 thus a radial space between the stopper portions 39.And, thereby the stopper portions 39 are out of the engagement windows23 and the retainer 33 can be relatively pulled out of the connectorhousing 3. As the retainer 33 is relatively pulled out of the connector1, the pipe 45 is also pulled out of the connector housing 3 along withthe retainer 33.

[0053] For a connector clip (cap) 59 for verifying complete connectionbetween a connector and a pipe, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, to be put on andmounted to the connector 1 and the pipe 45, thermoplastic resin iswidely used as material. If heat resistant property is required,polyamide type resin such as PA11, PA12 and PA66 or nylon is adapted.Polypropylene type resin such as PP or polyester type resin may beadapted to achieve cost reduction.

[0054] The connector clip 59 is constructed overall in a form of U-shapein cross-section so as to be put on and mounted to the connector housing3 and the pipe 45 via a side of a U-shaped opening or U-shaped openextending longitudinally or axially of the connector housing 3 and thepipe 45. The connector clip 59 has a clip body (cap body) 61 of U-shapein cross-section on one axial side thereof, and a connection verifyingportion 63 also of U-shape in cross-section on an opposite axial sidethereof as a unit. The clip body 61 is intended to receive a heldportion from the tubular holding portion 17 of the connector housing 3or the stepped end surface 29 of the tubular holding portion 17 to theannular verification projection 57 of the pipe 45. On the other hand,the connection verifying portion 63 is intended to fit on and receive anopposite axial side of the annular verification projection 57 withrespect to the pipe 45.

[0055] The clip body 61 includes a connector receiving portion 65 forreceiving a side of the connector 1 and a projection receiving portion67 connected integrally to an opposite axial end of the connectorreceiving portion 65. And, the connection verifying portion 63 isconnected integrally to an opposite axial end of the projectionreceiving portion 67.

[0056] The connector receiving portion 65 has a receiving body 69including an arcuate wall portion 71 curved through an arc of smaller orslightly smaller than 180° and formed with a drain opening 73 on a midportion thereof and a pair of flat side wall portions 75 connectedintegrally to the arcuate wall portion 71 on widthwise opposite endsthereof The connector receiving portion 65 also has an inwardly directedextending portion 77 and a pair of inwardly raised portions 79 (only oneinwardly raised portion is shown). The inwardly directed extendingportion 77 is formed of U-shape and integrally on the receiving body 69at one axial end thereof so as to extend slightly inwardly. The inwardlyraised portions 79 are formed integrally on inner surfaces of the flatside wall portions 75 at opposite axial end portions thereof so as to beraised slightly inwardly and extend along opposite axial ends of theflat side wall portions 75 respectively. The arcuate wall portion 71 isformed to have an inner surface corresponding to an outer surface of thearcuate peripheral wall portion of the tubular holding portion 17. Apair of the flat side wall portions 75 are arranged parallel to eachother and with a space generally equal to that between a pair of theplaner portions 21 of the tubular holding portion 17. A U-shaped inneredge of the inwardly directed extending portion 77 defines an arcuatefit-on portion 81 and a lead-in portion 83. The arcuate fit-on portion81 is formed in an arc of slightly larger than 180°, with an innerdiameter equal to or generally equal to an outer diameter of thecylindrical sealing portion 19 of the connector housing 3, and opentoward a U-shaped opening side. The lead-in portion 83 is extending soas to be widened gradually from opening ends of the fit-on portion 81 toends of the U-shaped opening. Each of the inwardly raised portions 79 isdesigned to be raised at height slightly larger than a wall thickness ofthe tubular holding portion 17 of the connector housing 3. And, adistance between a pair of the inwardly raised portions 79 is designedslightly larger than a width of the latching end 49 of the retainer 33.

[0057] A distance between an opposite axial side surface or insidesurface 85 (one clip portion) of the inwardly directed extending portion77 and one axial side surface or inside surface of the inwardly raisedportion 79 is designed equal to or generally equal to an axial length ofthe tubular holding portion 17 of the connector housing 3. The connectorreceiving portion 65 internally defines a connector receptacle portionor a connector inner receiving portion 86 of U-shape in cross-section toembrace and receive the tubular holding portion 17 from both axial endsthereof between the opposite axial side surface 85 of the inwardlydirected extending portion 77 and one axial side surfaces of theinwardly raised portions 79. The connector receiving portion 65 alsointernally defines a retainer receptacle portion or a retainer innerreceiving portion 88 of U-shape or U-shape in cross-section to receivethe latching end 49 of the retainer 33 between a pair of the inwardlyraised portions 79.

[0058] The projection receiving portion 67 has a pair of side wallportions 87 (only one side wall portion is shown) and a pair of arcuateportions 89 (only one arcuate portion is shown) connected integrally torespective side wall portion 87 on ends opposite to a U-shaped openingside and extending circumferentially slightly, concentric with thearcuate wall portion 71, and thereby the projection receiving portion 67internally has a projection receptacle portion of U-shape with cut attop side or U-shape with cut at top side in cross-section. The side wallportions 87 are connected integrally to the opposite axial end surfacesor ends of respective inwardly raised portions 79, have inner surfacesco-planer with inner surfaces of the inwardly raised portions 79 andextend slightly in an opposite axial direction. A distance between apair of side wall portions 87 is designed generally equal to an outerdiameter of the annular verification projection 57, and an inner surfaceor a curved inner surface of the arcuate portion 89 is formed withcurvature radius or inner diameter (radius) identical to or generallyidentical to outer diameter (radius) of the annular verificationprojection 57. Also, a drain hole 91 is formed between top end portionsof a pair of the arcuate portions 89. Outer surfaces of the arcuateportions 89 are formed integrally with ridge-like portions 93 whichclose up a gap to be defined between the arcuate portions 89 and anopposite axial end of the arcuate wall portion 71. A distance betweentop end portions of a pair of the arcuate portions 89 and between a pairof the ridge-like portions 93 is designed smaller than a width of thelatching end 49 of the retainer 33.

[0059] The connection verifying portion 63 integrally has a pair of capside-wall portions 95 (restraining portion) and an arcuate wall portion97. A pair of the cap side-wall portions 95 are connected integrally toan opposite axial end of each of the side wall portions 87 of theprojection receiving portion 67. The arcuate wall portion 97 isconnected integrally to ends of the cap side-wall portions 95 oppositeto the U-shaped opening so as to extend or bridge therebetween,concentric with the arcuate wall portion 71 and the arcuate portion 89.The connection verifying portion 63 has a receiving recess (hollow) ofU-shape in cross-section defined to receive an opposite axial side of(from or beyond) the annular verification projection 57 with respect tothe pipe 45. A width of the receiving hollow or a distance between apair of the cap side-wall portions 95 is designed generally equal to anouter diameter of an opposite axial side of (from or beyond) the annularverification projection 57 with respect to the pipe 45 or a bodythereof. The arcuate wall portion 97 includes an inner surface curved soas to have an inner diameter generally equal to an outer diameter of thebody of the pipe 45 to define a fit-on portion 99 of the receivinghollow. The receiving hollow or an inner surface of the connectionverifying portion 63 is formed integrally with a raised strip portion101 of U-shape raising slightly inwardly on an opposite axial endportion thereof. An inner surface of the raised strip portion 101 ofU-shape defines an embracing portion 103 of semicircle shape withopening on a U-shaped opening side, a pair of snap ridges 105 continuedto ends of an opening of the embracing portion 103 and a lead-in portion107 extending from the snap ridges 105 to ends of the U-shaped openinggenerally at constant width. An inner diameter of the embracing portion103 is designed equal to or generally equal to an outer diameter of thebody of the pipe 45.

[0060] The receiving hollow of the connection verifying portion 63 isformed on an inner side from an inner surface of the projectionreceiving portion 67. Therefore, on one axial end of the connectionverifying portion 63 or an opposite axial end of the clip body 61, aU-shaped end surface 109 (opposite clip portion) is defined so as toextend more inwardly than an inner surface of the projection receivingportion 67. And, an axial length of the connection verifying portion 63or the cap side-wall portion 95 is designed shorter than an axial lengthbetween the annular engagement projection 43 and the annularverification projection 57 of the pipe 45, but equal to an axialdistance between an inserting or insertion end of the pipe 45 and anopposite axial end of the O-ring 25 located on an opposite axial sideduring complete connection.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 7, the connector clip 59 is mounted to or on theconnector 1 and the pipe 45 so as to locate a pair of the flat side wallportions 75 of the connector receiving portion 65 to correspond to theplanar portions 21 of the tubular holding portion 17 of the connector 1.As understood also from FIGS. 8 and 9, on the occasion of mounting theconnector clip 59, a portion of the cylindrical sealing portion 19,adjacent to the tubular holding portion 17, is passed or moved throughthe lead-in portion 83 of the inwardly directed extending portion 77 andis snap-fitted in the fit-on portion 81. The tubular holding portion 17is received in the connector receptacle portion 86 of the connectorreceiving portion 65, and the latching ends 49 of the retainer 33 arereceived in the retainer receptacle portion 88 of the connectorreceiving portion 65. The annular verification projection 57 of the pipe45 is passed through or moved between a pair of side wall portions 87 ofthe projection receiving portion 67 and is fitted in the arcuateportions 89. The opposite axial side of (from or beyond) the annularverification projection 57 is also passed through or moved between apair of the cap side-wall portions 95 of the connection verifyingportion 63 and is fitted in the fit-on portion 99. By mounting theconnector clip 59 thereto, a held portion between the tubular holdingportion 17 or the stepped end surface 29 and the annular verificationprojection 57 of the pipe 45 is held from axial opposite ends by theopposite axial side surface 85 of the inwardly directed extendingportion 77 and the end surface 109 of the connection verifying portion63 or the clip body 61, and thereby the pipe 45 is certainly preventingfrom escaping the connector 1. In the opposite axial side portion of thereceiving hollow of the connection verifying portion 63, the pipe 45 ispassed or moved through the lead-in portion 107 of the raised stripportion 101 and is snap-fitted in the embracing portion 103. That is,the connector clip 59 is snap-fitted on or to the connector 1 and thepipe 45 so as to clip or hold the connector 1 and the pipe 45 radially.

[0062] Meanwhile, if the pipe 45 is not sufficiently inserted in theconnector 1 or the retainer 33 and the annular engagement projection 43of the pipe 45 does not engage in the engagement slits 51, 51 of theretainer 33, the annular verification projection 57 of the pipe 45 islocated further apart toward an opposite axial direction from anopposite axial end of the connector housing 3, compared to the case thatthe pipe 45 is correctly connected to the connector 1. Therefore, asshown in FIG. 10, when the connector clip 59 is tried to be mounted tothe quick connector 1 and the pipe 45 so that the tubular holdingportion 17 is received in the connector receptacle portion 86 of theconnector receiving portion 65, the annular verification projection 57of the pipe 45 is not located so as to seat in the projection receivingportion 67 but on a side of the connection verifying portion 63 or inthe connection verifying portion 63. However, as a width of thereceiving hollow of the connection verifying portion 63 is designedsmaller than an outer diameter of the annular verification projection 57of the pipe 45, the annular verification projection 57 contacts with orabuts ends of the U-shaped opening of the connection verifying portion63, and the pipe 45 cannot be received in the receiving hollow of theconnection verifying portion 63. Therefore, the connector clip 59 cannotbe fitted to the connector 1 and the pipe 45.

[0063] And, if the pipe 45 is not sufficiently inserted in the connector1 or the retainer 33, and the annular verification projection 57 of thepipe 45 is located far apart from an opposite axial end of the connectorhousing 3 toward an opposite axial direction, as an axial length (L1 inFIG. 11) of the connection verifying portion 63 of the connector clip 59is designed shorter than an axial length (M1 in FIG. 11) between theannular engagement projection 43 and the annular verification projection57 of the pipe 45, the connector clip 59 possibly happens to be mountedto the connector 1 and the pipe 45 as shown in FIG. 11. Here, thetubular holding portion 17 is received in the connector receptacleportion 86 of the connector receiving portion 65, the annular engagementprojection 43 of the pipe 45 is received, for example, in the projectionreceiving portion 67, the annular verification projection 57 of the pipe45 is located on an opposite axial side of (from or beyond) theconnection verifying portion 63 and a portion between the annularengagement projection 43 and the annular verification projection 57 withrespect to the pipe 45 is received in the receiving hollow of theconnector verifying portion 63. However, even if such case happens, asan axial length (L1) of the connection verifying portion 63 is designedequal to an axial distance (N in FIG. 4) between an inserting orinsertion end of the pipe 45 and an opposite axial end of the O-ring 25on an opposite axial side during complete connection, the annularverification projection 57 is located much toward an opposite axialdirection by a length longer than an axial distance (N) between theinserting end of the pipe 45 completely connected to the connector 1 andan opposite axial end of the O-ring 25 on an opposite axial side,compared to the case that the pipe 45 is correctly connected to theconnector 1. That is, the inserting end of the pipe 45 is locatedrearwardly or retracted away from the O-ring 25 on an opposite axialside toward an opposite axial direction, and thereby no seal is providedbetween the connector housing 3 and the pipe 45. In this state, if aninspection fluid is flowed in the pipe 45, the inspection fluid leaksout between the pipe 45 and the connector 1, and thereby it is verifiedthat the pipe 45 is insufficiently or incompletely connected to theconnector 1. Even if the connector clip 59 is mounted to the connector 1and the pipe 45 with a U-shaped opening side upward, as an inspectionfluid is discharged through the drain opening 73 or the drain hole 91,it can be easily verified that the pipe 45 is incompletely connected tothe connector 1.

[0064] As well shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, another connector or anotherquick connector 111, to which another connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe according to thepresent invention is applied, is also used for joint construction in agasoline fuel piping for vehicle. The another connector 111 has atubular connector housing 113 made of metal, a tube connecting portion115 made of metal to be fitted in a rubber hose (not shown) integrallyon one axial side of, from or beyond the tubular connector housing 113,and a through bore 117 through from an opposite axial end (rear end) ofthe connector housing 113 to a leading end of the tube connectingportion 115. The tube connecting portion 115 includes a bent portion 119continued integrally from one axial end of the connector housing 113 andcurved at 90° with respect to an axis of the connector housing 113, anda straight pipe portion 121 continued integrally from the bent portion119 and extending in a direction perpendicular to an axis of theconnector housing 113. The straight pipe portion 121 is formed with twoannular stop ribs 123 projecting radially outwardly, axially spacedrelation with one another.

[0065] The connector housing 113 has a cylindrical transitional portion125 on one axial side thereof which is continued integrally to the tubeconnecting portion 115, an annular holding portion 127 of large diameter(large diameter portion) on an opposite axial side thereof, and acylindrical sealing portion 129 in the middle axially thereof, sizedsmaller than the annular holding portion 127 in diameter, but largerthan the cylindrical transitional portion 125 in diameter. In thecylindrical sealing portion 129, a pair of O-rings 131 (sealing members)are fitted axially in side-by-side relation with a collar 133therebetween within the inner peripheral surface thereof A numeralreference 135 in FIG. 13 indicates a metal bush which is fitted in aninner peripheral surface of the cylindrical sealing portion 129 toprevent displacement of the O-rings 131.

[0066] The annular holding portion 127 has a base portion 137 continuedintegrally from an opposite axial end of the cylindrical sealing portion129, an intermediate portion 139 continued integrally from an oppositeaxial end of the base portion 137, and an opening-side portion 141continued integrally from an opposite axial end of the intermediateportion 139. The base portion 137 extends short in an opposite axialdirection so as to diametrically enlarge steeply, the intermediateportion 139 extends in an opposite axial direction so as todiametrically enlarge gently, and the opening-side portion 141 extendsin an opposite axial direction along an axis. The annular holdingportion 127 further has an inwardly directed flange portion 143integrally on an opposite axial end of the opening-side portion 141 soas to project slightly inwardly. An inner periphery of the inwardlydirected flange portion 143 defines an insertion opening 145 (opening onan axial end).

[0067] A retainer 147 made of metal is fitted in the annular holdingportion 127. This retainer 147 integrally has an annular foot portion149 on one axial end portion thereof, four thin-walled plate-likesupport portions 151 extending from the foot portion 149 generally in anopposite axial direction, and thin-walled plate-like engagement portions153 formed on the respective thin-walled plate-like support portions151. Four support portions 151 extend in an opposite axial directioncircumferentially equally spaced relation with one another, integrallyfrom four circumferential points on an opposite axial end of the footportion 149 respectively. The engagement portions 153 are continuedintegrally from opposite axial ends of the support portions 151, foldedback radially inwardly, and extend in one axial direction respectively.Each of the support portions 151 includes an outwardly directed portion155 extending in a radially outward direction, integrally from anopposite axial end of the foot portion 149, and a support body 157extending in an opposite axial direction integrally from a radiallyouter end of the outwardly directed portion 155 so as to incline gentlyin a radially outward direction. The support body 157 is formedcontinuously and integrally with the engagement portion 153 on anopposite axial end thereof Here, an opposite axial end of the supportbody 157 or a fold back portion of the engagement portion 153 is inabutment relation with the inwardly directed flange portion 143.Consequently, the retainer 147 is retained in the annular holdingportion 127 in locked relation against escaping movement. The engagementportion 153 includes an engagement body 159 folding back from thesupport body 157 and extending in one axial direction so as to inclinegently in a radially inward direction, and an abutment portion 161formed integrally on one axial end of the engagement body 159 andprojecting radially outwardly. The engagement body 159 includes arelease jut 163 jutting out radially inwardly, on a portion toward oneaxial end thereof.

[0068] As well understood with reference to FIG. 14, the another pipe165 connected to the connector 111 as mating member is also formed withan annular engagement projection 167 on an outer peripheral surface ofan inserting or insertion end portion thereof. The pipe 165 isrelatively pushed, and fittingly inserted into an insertion opening 145of the connector housing 113 or the connector 111 so that the annularengagement projection 167 progresses radially expanding inner surface ofthe engagement body 159 of the retainer 147 until the annular engagementprojection 167 snap-engages with the abutment portion 161 of theengagement portion 153. The pipe 165 is further provided with an annularverification projection 169 with the same or substantially the sameprojecting height as the annular engagement projection 167 on an outerperipheral surface of an opposite axial side of the annular engagementprojection 167. The annular verification projection 169 is arranged onthe pipe 165 so as to be located on an axially outer side or an oppositeaxial side of the insertion opening 145 of the annular holding portion127, while the pipe 165 is correctly inserted and connected to theconnector 111 so that the annular engagement projection 167 snap-engageswith the abutment portion 161 of the retainer 147. The pipe 165 islocked against escaping movement with respect to the connector 111 whilethe annular engagement projection 167 comes in snap-engagement relationwith the abutment portion 161 of the engagement portion 153 of theretainer 147, that is, while the annular engagement projection 167 islocated beyond the abutment portion 161 in one axial direction. And, thepipe 165 is locked against forward movement with respect to theconnector 111 while the annular engagement projection 167 abuts theoutwardly directed portion 155 of the support portion 151 of theretainer 147 and moves the retainer 147 in one axial direction, and oneaxial end portion of the retainer 147 abuts the bush 135 or theproximity of the bush 135. Here, one axial end or the insertion end ofthe pipe 165 reaches in the cylindrical transitional portion 125 beyonda pair of the O-rings 131 within the cylindrical sealing portion 129 andthereby a seal is formed by the O-rings 131 between an outer peripheralsurface of the pipe 165 and an inner peripheral surface of the connectorhousing 113.

[0069] In the event of removing the pipe 165 from the connector 111, apair of half-cylindrical portions 171 of a release devise 173 areinserted between the annular holding portion 127 and the pipe 165 sothat one axial ends of the half-cylindrical portions 171 push therelease jut 163 to widen the engagement body 159. Then, as an engagementrelation between the abutment portion 161 of the engagement portion 153and the annular engagement projection 167 is released, it becomespossible that the pipe 165 is relatively pulled out of the connectorhousing 113 (a pair of the half-cylindrical portions 171 of the releasedevise 173 are shown as widened in FIG. 14).

[0070] For another connector clip or cap 175 for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe, shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, tobe put on and mounted to the connector 111 and the pipe 165,thermoplastic resin is widely used as material. If heat resistantproperty is required, polyamide type resin such as PA11, PA12 and PA66or nylon is adapted. Polypropylene type resin such as PP or polyestertype resin may be adapted to achieve cost reduction.

[0071] The connector clip 175 is constructed in a form of U-shape incross-section so as to be put on and mounted to the connector housing113 and the pipe 165 via a side of a U-shaped opening or U-shaped openextending longitudinally or axially of the connector housing 113 and thepipe 165. The connector clip 175 comprises a clip body (cap body) 177 ofU-shape in cross-section, a one-side wall portion 179 formed integrallyon one axial end of the clip body 177 and having a connector fit-onrecess 181, and an opposite-side wall portion 183 formed integrally onan opposite axial end of the clip body 177 and having a pipe fit-onrecess 185. The connector clip 175 also comprises a connection verifyingportion 186 formed integrally on the clip body 177, more specifically, apair of thin-walled restraining lugs (or pieces) 187 formed integrallyon an opposite axial side surface of the opposite-side wall portion 183at widthwise opposite sides thereof and end portions of U-shaped openingside so as to extend in an opposite axial direction. An axial distancebetween the one-side wall portion 179, more specifically, an edge oredge portion of the connector fit-on portion 181 of an inner surface 188(one clip portion) of the one-side wall portion 179 and theopposite-side wall portion 183, more specifically, an inner surface 190(opposite clip portion) of the opposite-side wall portion 183 isdesigned generally equal to an axial distance between one axial end ofthe annular holding portion 127 of the connector 111 and an oppositeaxial end of the annular verification projection 169 of the pipe 165which is completely fitted in and connected to the connector 111. And,an axial distance between an inner surface 190 of the opposite-side wallportion 183 and an opposite axial end of the restraining lug 187 isdesigned slightly longer than an axial length between the annularengagement projection 167 and the annular verification projection 169 ofthe pipe 165.

[0072] The clip body 177 includes an arcuate wall portion 189 ofsemicircular shape in cross-section, and a pair of flat side wallportions 191 formed integrally on and continuously from the arcuate wallportion 189 at widthwise opposite ends thereof, and the clip body 177internally defines a receptacle portion or an inner receiving portion192 of U-shape in cross-section. An inner surface of the arcuate wallportion 189 is designed to have an inner diameter equal to or generallyequal to an outer diameter of the opening side portion 141 of theannular holding portion 127, and a distance between a pair of the sidewall portions 191 is designed equal to or generally equal to an outerdiameter of the opening side portion 141 of the annular holding portion127.

[0073] The connector fit-on recess 181 of the one-side wall portion 179includes one semicircular fit-on portion 193 formed concentric with aninner surface of the arcuate wall portion 189 of the clip body 177, andone lead-in portion 195 extending from the one semicircular fit-onportion 193 at circumferential or widthwise opposite ends thereof inparallel relation with the side wall portions 191 and opening intospace. An inner diameter of the one semicircular fit-on portion 193 anda width of the one lead-in portion 195 are designed equal to orgenerally equal to an outer diameter of the cylindrical sealing portion129 of the connector housing 113, and snap ridges 197 are providedaround on a border between the one semicircular fit-on portion 193 andthe one lead-in portion 195. Thus, the one-side wall portion 179includes a semicircular portion 199 of which an inner periphery definesthe one semicircular fit-on portion 193, and a pair of side portions 201of which widthwise inner ends define the one lead-in portion 195.Further, the one-side wall portion 179 is designed to protrude the oneconnector fit-on recess 181 in one axial direction from an outer edge ofthe one-side wall portion 179 in such manner that the side portions 201extend radially inwardly and are tapered or inclined in one axialdirection respectively, and the semicircular portion 199 protrudes inone axial direction in a frustoconical shape.

[0074] The pipe fit-on recess 185 of the opposite-side wall portion 183includes an opposite semicircular fit-on portion 203 formed concentricwith an inner surface of the arcuate wall portion 189 of the clip body177, and an opposite lead-in portion 205 extending from the oppositesemicircular fit-on portion 203 at circumferential or widthwise oppositeends thereof in parallel relation with the side wall portions 191 andopening into space. An inner diameter of the opposite semicircularfit-on portion 203 and a width of the opposite lead-in portion 205 aredesigned equal to or generally equal to an outer diameter of a body ofthe pipe 165, and opposite snap ridges 207 are provided around on aborder between the opposite semicircular fit-on portion 203 and theopposite lead-in portion 205.

[0075] A pair of the restraining lugs 187 are formed integrally on theopposite-side wall portion 183 or an opposite axial side surface of theopposite-side wall portion 183 so that widthwise inner end surfaces ofthe restraining lugs 187 correspond to the opposite lead-in portion 205of the pipe fit-on portion 185 in coplanar relation with one another,and widthwise outer end surfaces of the restraining lugs 187 correspondto outer surfaces of the side wall portions 191 or an outer surface ofthe opposite-side wall portion 183 of the clip body 177 in coplanarrelation. Thus, a distance between a pair of the restraining lugs 187 isdesigned equal to a width of the pipe fit-on recess 185. And,reinforcement ribs 209 are formed integrally between the restraininglugs 187 and the opposite-side wall portion 183 respectively, so thatwidthwise inner surfaces thereof correspond to widthwise inner endsurfaces of the restraining lugs 187 and the opposite lead-in portion205 of the pipe fit-on recess 185 in coplanar relation. Thereinforcement ribs 209 are relatively thick-walled and unitary with therestraining lugs 187 along entire length thereof The reinforcement ribs209 extend so as to rise gradually upward in one axial direction from anopposite axial end of an upper surface (a surface on a side of theopposite-side wall portion 183) of the restraining lug 187 up to aheight the same or generally the same as the deepest position of thepipe fit-on portion 185 at a joint position with the opposite-side wallportion 183. An end surface 211 of each reinforcement rib 209 is formedas beveled surface extending from the opposite axial end of the uppersurface of the restraining lug 187 up to the opposite-side wall portion183.

[0076] A numeral reference 213, for example, in FIG. 15 indicates adrain hole formed in the arcuate wall portion 189. The drain hole 213 isintended to discharge therethrough an internal fluid which leaks out ofa connection part between the connector 111 and the pipe 165.

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 17 to 20, the another connector clip 175 ismounted to the connector 111 and the pipe 165 so that; a portion of thecylindrical sealing portion 129, adjacent to the annular holding portion127, is passed or moved through the one lead-in portion 195 of theone-side wall portion 179 and snap-fitted in the one semicircular fit-onportion 193; a held portion from the annular holding portion 127 to theannular verification projection 169 of the pipe 165 is received in theclip body 177 or the receptacle portion 192, while held by the one-sidewall portion 179 and the opposite-side wall portion 183, morespecifically between a portion around edge of the connector fit-onportion 181 in the inner surface 188 of the one-side wall portion 179and an inner surface 190 of the opposite-side wall portion 183 fromopposite axial sides; the opposite axial side of (from or beyond) theannular verification projection 169 with respect to the pipe 165 ispassed and moved through the opposite lead-in portion 205 of theopposite-side wall portion 183 and snap-fitted in the oppositesemicircular fit-on portion 203, and an opposite axial side furtherbeyond the annular verification projection 169 with respect to the pipe165 is passed between a pair of the restraining lugs 187. As the heldportion between the annular holding portion 127 and the annularverification projection 169 of the pipe 165 is held or clipped fromopposite axial sides by the one-side wall portion 179 and theopposite-side wall portion 183, and the pipe 165 is certainly preventedfrom escaping the connector 111.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 21, if the pipe 165 is not sufficiently insertedin the connector 111 or the retainer 147 and the annular engagementprojection 167 of the pipe 165 does not engage with the abutment portion161 of the engagement portion 153 of the retainer 147, the annularverification projection 169 of the pipe 165 is located further aparttoward an opposite axial direction from an opposite axial end of theconnector housing 113, compared to the case that the pipe 165 iscorrectly connected to the connector 111. Therefore, when the connectorclip 175 is tried to be mounted to the connector 111 and the pipe 165 sothat the annular holding portion 127 is received in the clip body 177,the annular verification projection 169 of the pipe 165 is not locatedso as to seat in the clip body 177 but on a side of the restraining lug187. However, as a distance between the restraining lugs 187 is designedsmaller than an outer diameter of the annular verification projection169 of the pipe 165, the annular verification projection 169 contactswith or abuts the restraining lugs 187 and the pipe 165 cannot passbetween the restraining lugs 187. Therefore, the connector clip 175cannot be mounted to the connector 111 and the pipe 165 (in FIG. 21, theannular verification projection 169 abuts the opposite-side wall portion183). Here, as a pair of the restraining lugs or tabs 187 are formedless deformable by providing with reinforcement ribs 209, the annularverification projection 169 does not pass between a pair of therestraining lugs 187 even if the annular verification projection 169 isstrongly pushed against the restraining lugs 187.

[0079] And, if the pipe 165 is not sufficiently inserted in theconnector 111 or the retainer 147, the annular verification projection169 of the pipe 165 is located far apart from an opposite axial end ofthe connector housing 113 toward an opposite axial direction, and theannular verification projection 169 of the pipe 165 is to be located onan opposite axial side of (from or beyond) the restraining lugs 187, asan axial distance (L2 in FIG. 17) between an inner surface 190 of theopposite-side wall portion 183 and an opposite axial end of therestraining lug 187 is designed longer than an axial length (M2 in FIG.22) of the pipe 165 between the annular engagement projection 167 andthe annular verification projection 169, as shown in FIG. 22, theannular engagement projection 167 of the pipe 165 is to be located on aside of the restraining lugs 187. Therefore, when the connector clip 175is tried to be mounted to the connector 111 and the pipe 165, theannular engagement projection 167 of the pipe 165 abuts a pair of therestraining lugs 187 which are arranged with a space narrower than anouter diameter of the annular engagement projection 167 of the pipe 165,or ends of U-shaped opening side of the opposite-side wall portion 183which has the pipe fit-on recess 185 with width narrower than an outerdiameter of the annular engagement projection 167 of the pipe 165, andthereby the another connector clip 175 cannot be mounted to theconnector 111 and the pipe 165 (FIG. 22 shows the case that the annularverification projection 169 abuts the restraining lugs 187, and theannular engagement projection 167 abuts ends of U-shaped opening side ofthe opposite-side wall portion 183).

[0080] Further, as shown in FIG. 23, when the pipe 165 is notsufficiently inserted in the connector 111 or the retainer 147 and theannular engagement projection 167 of the pipe 165 does not engage withthe abutment portion 161 of the engagement portion 153 of the retainer147, if one axial side of (from or beyond) the annular verificationprojection 169 with respect to the pipe 165 is moved between therestraining lugs 187 or fitted therebetween via opposite axial side ofthe restraining lugs 187, the annular verification projection 169 isprevented from entirely entering between the restraining lugs 187 andthe opposite-side wall portion 185 due to abutment of the annularverification projection 169 against the end surfaces 211 of thereinforcement ribs 209. Consequently, as the annular engagementprojection 167 abuts the ends of U-shaped opening side of the other-sidewall portion 185, the pipe 165 cannot pass between the restraining lugs187. Therefore, the another connector clip 175 cannot be mounted to theconnector 111 and the pipe 165.

We claim:
 1. A connector clip for verifying complete connection betweena connector and a pipe to be put thereon and mounted thereto; theconnector having a tube connecting portion on one axial side thereof andretainer means on an opposite axial side thereof, and being providedwith sealing member in an inner peripheral surface thereof; the pipebeing provided with an annular engagement projection and an annularverification projection on an outer peripheral surface thereof, andbeing inserted into an opening on an axial end of the connector so as toallow an inserting end thereof to be located beyond the sealing memberand the annular engagement projection to be snap-engaged with theretainer means; and the annular verification projection being formed soas to be located in or near an opposite axial end of the connector, oron an opposite axial side of an opposite axial end of the connector;comprising: a clip body on one axial side including one clip portion andan opposite clip portion on one and opposite axial end portions orpositions thereof respectively, the clip body being configured toreceive a held portion from a large diameter portion on an oppositeaxial side of the connector to the annular verification projection ofthe pipe so as to be held by the clip portions from axially oppositeends of the held portion, a connection verifying portion on an oppositeaxial side, continued from the clip body, the connection verifyingportion being configured by a pair of restraining portions extendingfrom the clip body in an opposite axial direction with a widthwisedistance so as to allow a body of the pipe to pass through or movetherebetween but not to allow the annular engagement projection and theannular verification projection of the pipe to pass throughtherebetween, and a pair of the restraining portions having or beingprovided with an assistance structure to effectively detect incompleteconnection of a connector and a pipe.
 2. The connector clip forverifying complete connection between a connector and a pipe as setforth in claim 1 wherein an axial distance between the opposite clipportion of the clip body and an opposite axial end of the connectionverifying portion is designed shorter than an axial length between theannular engagement projection and the annular verification projection ofthe pipe, and the assistance structure is constructed such that theaxial distance between the opposite clip portion and the opposite axialend of the connection verifying portion is designed equal to or longerthan an axial distance between the inserting end of the pipe and anopposite axial end of the sealing member.
 3. The connector clip forverifying complete connection between a connector and a pipe as setforth in claim 1 wherein the clip body has an inner receiving portion ofU-shape in cross-section.
 4. The connector clip for verifying completeconnection between a connector and a pipe as set forth in claim 1wherein the connection verifying portion includes a joint portion tojoin a pair of the restraining portions, and has a receiving recess ofU-shape in cross-section to receive an opposite axial side of theannular verification projection of the pipe.
 5. A connector connectingstructure for verifying complete connection between a connector and apipe by way of a connector clip putting thereon and mounting thereto;the connector having a tube connecting portion on one axial side thereofand retainer means on an opposite axial side thereof, and being providedwith sealing member in an inner peripheral surface thereof; the pipebeing provided with an annular engagement projection and an annularverification projection on an outer peripheral surface thereof, andbeing inserted into an opening on an axial end of the connector so as toallow an inserting end thereof to be located beyond the sealing memberand the annular engagement projection to be snap-engaged with theretainer means; and the annular verification projection being located inor near an opposite axial end of the connector, or on an opposite axialside of an opposite axial end of the connector; the connector clip,comprising; a clip body on one axial side including one clip portion andan opposite clip portion on one and opposite axial end portions orpositions thereof respectively, the clip body receiving a held portionfrom a large diameter portion on an opposite axial side of the connectorto the annular verification projection of the pipe so as to be held bythe clip portions from axially opposite ends of the held portion, aconnection verifying portion on an opposite axial side, continued fromthe clip body, the connection verifying portion being configured by apair of restraining portions extending from the clip body in an oppositeaxial direction with a widthwise distance so as to allow a body of thepipe to pass through or move therebetween but not to allow the annularengagement projection and the annular verification projection of thepipe to pass through therebetween, and an axial distance between theopposite clip portion of the clip body and an opposite axial end of theconnection verifying portion being designed shorter than an axial lengthbetween the annular engagement projection and the annular verificationprojection of the pipe, and being designed equal to or longer than anaxial distance between the inserting end of the pipe and an oppositeaxial end of the sealing member.
 6. The connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe as set forth in claim3 wherein the one clip portion of the clip body is defined in an insidesurface of a one-side wall portion having a connector fit-on recess ofU-shape, and the opposite clip portion of the clip body is defined in aninside surface of an opposite-side wall portion having a pipe fit-onrecess of U-shape with a width equal to or generally equal to an outerdiameter of a body of the pipe, a pair of the restraining portions areformed in a form of a pair of restraining lugs which are providedintegrally on end portions of an opening side of the opposite-side wallportion with the pipe fit-on recess therebetween and extend in anopposite axial direction, and reinforcement ribs are provided integrallybetween the restraining lugs and the opposite-side wall portionsrespectively, an axial distance between the opposite clip portion andopposite axial ends of the restraining lugs is designed longer than anaxial length between the annular engagement projection and the annularverification projection of the pipe, and the assistance structure isconstructed such that a distance between a pair of the reinforcementribs is designed shorter than an outer diameter of the annularverification projection of the pipe.
 7. The connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe as set forth in claim6 wherein the reinforcement ribs are formed for entire length of therestraining lugs respectively.
 8. The connector clip for verifyingcomplete connection between a connector and a pipe as set forth in claim6 wherein the reinforcement ribs are formed along the pipe fit-on recessrespectively, and a distance between a pair of the reinforcement ribs isdesigned equal to or generally equal to a width of the pipe fit-onrecess.
 9. The connector clip for verifying complete connection betweena connector and a pipe as set forth in claim 6 wherein the one-side wallportion of the clip body is raised in one axial direction so that theconnector fit-on recess protrudes in one axial direction.